Outside Qingfeng Temple, the morning mist swirled among ancient, towering trees.
Fang Yue hid within a dense grove, his gaze sharp as he watched the area around the temple for any sign of movement.
Dressed all in black with his face masked, he seemed to blend seamlessly into his surroundings.
Time ticked by. As the sun gradually rose, the morning mist began to dissipate.
Duke Wei's men could arrive at any moment.
Suddenly, the faint sound of hooves broke the silence. Fang Yue tensed, his head snapping toward the sound.
A contingent of men on horseback approached Qingfeng Temple, their banner clearly embroidered with the sigil of Duke Wei.
'They're here!' Fang Yue thought. He took a deep breath, steadying himself.
He knew the confrontation was about to begin. He had to stay calm and focused.
Duke Wei's contingent halted before the temple. A group of masters surrounded Duke Wei as he alighted from his carriage.
They scanned their surroundings, wary of any potential threats.
